I'm going through a similar situation right now - escalated through the governor's office about 10 days ago and still waiting for that adjudicator call. It's so stressful not knowing when it will happen! From what I'm reading here, it sounds like 1-2 weeks is pretty typical, but employer disputes like yours can take longer. I'd suggest setting up a separate ringtone for unknown numbers so you don't miss the call, and maybe start documenting everything about your layoff situation now while it's fresh in your memory. Hang in there - at least you got the escalation which seems to actually work for most people eventually.

I'm in a similar boat right now - escalated my claim through the governor's office about 5 days ago and anxiously waiting for that adjudicator call. Reading through everyone's experiences here is both reassuring and nerve-wracking! It sounds like the timeline really varies depending on your specific issue and how backed up they are. One thing I've learned from dealing with ESD is to keep detailed records of every interaction - dates, times, reference numbers, names if you get them. Also, if you haven't already, make sure you're continuing to file your weekly claims even while waiting. I made that mistake early on and it caused additional delays. The financial stress is real though. While waiting, I've been looking into local food banks and utility assistance programs. Many have specific programs for people waiting on unemployment benefits. It's not ideal, but it helps bridge the gap. Hoping you hear back soon!

I HATE how they leave you hanging like this!!! My appeal took 9 DAYS to show up despite the judge saying "a few days" and by then I'd already had to borrow money from family just to keep my lights on. The whole system is designed to make people give up!!!!

UPDATE: My decision just came through! It was under the Documents tab like you all said. The judge reversed ESD's determination! Now I'm wondering how long until I actually see the money...should I call ESD to make sure they process it quickly?

One more thought - if you decide to appeal, consider asking the court for a fee waiver if you're low income. The $400+ filing fee can be waived if you qualify. The form is available on most Superior Court websites.

Based on everything you've shared, especially about the "updated policy" they sprung on you during the hearing, I think you should at least consult with the Unemployment Law Project before deciding. If they think you have a decent case, it might be worth pursuing. The fact that you texted your supervisor each day and they're claiming you violated a policy you never received could be exactly the kind of factual dispute that might get traction in court. To prepare for a consultation, gather: 1. Your original ESD determination letter 2. The OAH decision 3. Any evidence you submitted (like the text messages) 4. The employer's handbook with the "as soon as practicable" language 5. Any documentation showing you weren't notified of policy changes Good luck with whatever you decide!

also make sure ur still doing all ur job search activities every week even while this overpayment thing is happening. my cousin forgot to do his job searches for two weeks while dealing with an overpayment issue and they disqualified him completely, had to appeal and everything it was a huge mess

Just want to add that if you're struggling financially while dealing with this overpayment, make sure you also look into other resources in your area. Many counties have emergency rental assistance programs, food banks, and utility assistance that can help bridge the gap while you're getting reduced unemployment payments. I had to use a few of these programs when I was in a similar situation and it really helped me stay afloat. Also, if you have any documentation from the family emergency (like medical records, death certificate, travel receipts), keep those handy - sometimes they can help explain the circumstances to ESD even after the fact.

Don't forget that in addition to your regular unemployment benefits, you might also qualify for the extra $25 per dependent per week if you have kids. Doesn't change the advice about filing immediately, but worth knowing when budgeting for after your severance ends!

Just went through this exact situation myself! Got laid off in November with 6 weeks severance. Filed my initial claim the Monday after my last day even though my severance was higher than UI benefits. The key thing is you HAVE to keep filing those weekly claims during severance or they'll consider your claim abandoned. I made the mistake of skipping a couple weeks thinking "why bother if I'm getting $0" and had to call ESD to reactivate. Also heads up - they might ask for documentation of your severance agreement, so keep that handy. The good news is once your severance ends, the benefits kick in automatically if you've been filing consistently. Definitely don't wait until March like I almost did!